Meniscus repair surgery :
Meniscus repair surgery is a a common orthopedic procedure aimed at treating tears in the meniscus, an important cartilage structure in the knee that serves as a shock absorber. This surgery can be carried out using different techniques, mainly arthroscopic methods, which are less invasive.
Types of meniscus surgery :
- Meniscus Repair : This involves stitching the torn edges of the meniscus together. It's most effective for tears located in the "red zone," where there is adequate blood supply for healing. The success rate for this type of surgery is generally high, ranging from 80% to 90% depending on factors like the tear's location and patient age.
- Partial Meniscectomy : In cases where the tear is too severe to repair, surgeons may opt for a partial meniscectomy, where only the damaged portion of the meniscus is removed. This procedure often leads to quicker recovery times but may increase the risk of developing arthritis in the long term.
- Total Meniscectomy : If the meniscus is extensively damaged and cannot be repaired or partially removed, a total meniscectomy may be performed, which involves removing the entire meniscus. This option is less common and typically considered when other surgeries are not viable.
- Meniscus Transplantation : For younger patients with significant damage or arthritis, a meniscus transplant may be an option. This involves replacing the damaged meniscus with donor tissue.
